Modi's Statement on Nationalism an Act of Political Deception: Congress

New Delhi: The Congress on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his remarks on nationalism at the BJP state core groups' meeting, saying he has shifted the goal post as he was elected not because of nationalism but for the promises made to people that he never fulfilled.

The party also accused BJP of making no sacrifice for the country and said it "can never be trusted as a propagator or champion of nationalism".

"Narendra Modi's statement at the BJP core groups' meeting is one more act of political deception by a PM whose promise of 'acche din' and characteristic 'jumla style' (gimmickry) stands exposed before the nation," AICC in-charge of communication department Randeep Surjewala said.

"We want to remind Modiji that it was not nationalism that brought you to power. It was development, jobs, growth, good governance, promise of alleviating poor from poverty, eradication of inflation and bringing 'acche din' for all. The PM has conveniently forgotten these but people of India can see through his statement," Surjewala added.

He said those who had no sacrifice, participation and intent in creating the nation "can never be trusted as propagators or champions of nationalism. The Modi establishment has converted India into a nation-state where liberal traditions are under serious assault and mockery of law is rampant".

Surjewala said after two years of Modi coming to power, inflation remains high, internal security compromised, foreign affairs directionless, unemployment rising manifold, economic growth stagnant and 15 lakhs in every account a "forgotten jumla".

"The Prime Minister is shifting the goal post. People of India will hold him accountable not just for his 'pseudo nationalism' but fake and unfulfilled promises," he said.

Addressing core groups of state BJP units, Modi asserted that nationalism is the identity of BJP.

He said the week-long 'tiranga yatra' by Union ministers and party leaders to mark the 70th Independence Day had made a good impact across the country and played an important role in spreading the spirit of national unity, integrity and harmony at a time when forces against them are at work.